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bristle bent

Scientific Name: Agrostis curtisii

Family: Poaceae

Category: Monocot

Growth:

Duration:

Other Names:

       

Agrostis curtisii (Bristle Bent)

Agrostis curtisii, commonly known as Bristle Bent, is a species of grass belonging to the Poaceae family.

Considerations for Pets

  • Bristle Bent grows to about 60cm high.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Scientific Name: Agrostis curtisii
  • Authority: Kergulen
  • Common Name: Bristle Bent
  • Family: Poaceae
  • Rank: Species
  • Synonyms: Agrostis setacea is listed as a synonym in some sources.
  • Symbol: AGCU4

Distribution and Habitat

  • Native to the UK.
  • Typically found on dry heathland.
  • Also found in Cornwall on (Ulex gallii)/bristle bent (Agrostis curtisii) heathland and Goonhilly Down.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

  • Bristle Bent flowers in the UK from June until July.
  • It can grow to about 60cm high.
  • Forms dense tussocks.
  • Described as being very springy.

Ecological Role

  • Food source for certain moths, including the Grayling (Hipparchia semele).
  • Grazed upon by sheep.

Associations

  • Associated with dry heath habitats.
  • Part of the National Vegetation Classification (NVC) community U3 Agrostis curtisii grassland.
  • Can be found alongside Western gorse Ulex europeaus
  • Main foodplant alongside Sheep’s-fescue (Festuca ovina), Red Fescue (F. rubra), and Early Hair-grass (Aira praecox).

Quirky Facts

  • The text mentions that Bristle Bent grass is springy and "nice to walk on".

Further Information

  • Discover Life offers a page about the biology, natural history, ecology, identification, and distribution of Agrostis curtisii.
  • APHOTOFLORA provides photographic stock of Agrostis curtisii.
  • Flora of NW Europe covers over 3500 wild and introduced plants and features a quiz to test y knowledge!